“Dolores” is a house remodeling project from the beginning of the 20th century located in
Mérida, Yucatán. This project aims to rescue and celebrate the original character of the neighborhood, houses with modest volumes and frontal gardens promoted neighborhood coexistence.
Project Name: Dolores
Studio Name: Fmt Estudio
Location: Mexico , United States
Built Up Area: 185.50 Sq. M.
Status: Built
Image Credits: Lorena Darquea
The house, built originally for workers in a charity raffle, consisted of a single masonry
gallery with a concrete roof, and a small semi-detached kitchen room. Over time, original
families adapted the constructions, but these modifications dissolved the original type and
identity of the neighborhood.
The requirements of the project included new separated bedrooms, new service spaces
and a swimming pool. This involved a complete reorganization of the property, so the
existing spaces were also reconfigured.
To respect the context, the original volume was consolidated, presenting itself as the main
one and the new spaces were added to the back of it and on the second floor. These
additions were designed in a more contemporary style with light volumes to mark a
contrast between times. As part of the architectural integration, numerous details were
also designed in the windows and doors, which allowed us to create a consistent identity.
The chosen materials like wood, national marble and coatings made on site emphasized
the architectural elements. Serene colors were chosen to complement the natural tones
of the finishes.
This project seeks to study the influence of the individual building as a component of a
larger urban system. We understand that the transformation of cities and buildings is
inevitable, but only through rescuing historical memory can we create cities with
consistent identities, especially in the growing evolution of real estate speculation that
puts economic benefit before social and cultural benefit.
It is our hope that this strategy can be an inspiration for other houses in the area, adding
to these efforts to recreate the essence of the neighborhood.
